Why should mitral annulus gets calcified ? . Degenerative calcification can be benign in elderly . If it occurs prematurely (say < 55 years ) there is enough reasons to worry . This may represent a systemic vascular inflammation and is considered a surrogate marker for athero- vascular -sclerosis . A study from Cidar Sinai , Los angels has well documented the link way back in 2003 !

This is a large study involving 17 735 patients (who were investigated for symptoms of CAD ) were screened.

The incidence of MAC was high (As expected !)

35% > 65 years

5 % < 65 years

Angiography revealed more surprises .

The incidence of angiographic CAD among those who had MAC and no MAC was 88% v68% respectively ,( p = 0.0004),

Left main coronary artery disease was (14% 4%, p = 0.009)

Triple vessel disease was (54% v33%, p = 0.002).

Image source S.Atar , Heart 2003 : 89, 161-164

Conclusion

This study concluded , CAD is more aggressive in patients with MAC. It can also be an independent predictor of high risk CAD .

Further Implications of MAC

MAC is more common in women, especially diabetics .

Degenerative Mitral regurgitation is common ,rarely mitral stenosis

Recurrent VPDs and even trouble some mitral annular VT is possible

Extensive calcific lesions in coronary artery is also reported with MAC.